According to James Stavridis, who previously served as NATO’s supreme allied commander, the recent ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hezbollah can be attributed, in part, to the anticipated return of President-elect Trump to power.
During a Sunday interview on WABC 770 AM’s “The Cats Roundtable” with host John Catsimatidis, he stated, “Iran is very vulnerable. What that means is that in the fight that Israel continues to have with Hezbollah … you’re seeing Hezbollah willing to go to a ceasefire.”
He emphasized that the upcoming Trump administration is influencing the situation, suggesting, “I think that’s a direct result of the presence of a new Trump administration coming on.” The ceasefire, which commenced on Wednesday, was viewed as an initial step toward addressing the regional tensions following the Hamas attack on Israel on October 7, 2023. Nevertheless, both sides have accused one another of breaching the truce.
The ceasefire offers a glimmer of hope, but uncertainty looms over future negotiations
Stavridis noted that global leaders are hesitant to make definitive decisions until Trump takes office. “In many capitals around the world, the leaders are holding their breath. [They’re] just unsure of what’s coming,” he remarked.
He further explained the dynamics of negotiation, stating, “If that is used as a negotiating ploy, as a way to keep an opponent off balance, it works out pretty well. When it’s used with our allies and partners and friends, like the NATO alliance, it can have consequences that are less good.”
Known for his strong support of Israel, Trump has committed to quickly addressing the unrest in the nation during his second term. Analysts predict he will back Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s goals for achieving a “total victory” in the region, supported by a pro-Israel Cabinet.
However, some lawmakers express concern that Trump’s policies may undermine Palestinian rights. Rep. Hank Johnson (D-Ga.) has previously commented, “Things look bleak for the Palestinian cause as President-elect Trump gears up to return to the White House.” Recently, Trump appointed former Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee, who is against the two-state solution, as U.S. ambassador to Israel.
